Puccetti Kawasaki’s Toprak Razgatlioglu went from a grid placing of seventh to an audacious third in WorldSBK race one in Argentina, for what was his second podium finish of his rookie season.

“Friday was very good for me but I knew Superpole was not going to be easy,” said the 21-year-old Turkish rider. “My rear tyre always pushed the bike, and I go out sometimes, run wide. My best lap got me seventh position in Superpole.”

Razgatlioglu was to make up significant ground as the race wore on, at least partly because he just decided to ignore the raindrops that suddenly appeared on his visor.

“I had a good start and in the second corner Lowes and Laverty touched and we came back, fighting, fighting. I saw the rain flag but I did not close the gas because I had one chance for the podium! So I am really happy with my second podium in Superbike. Tomorrow will not be easy because I saw how things were today and I am starting from row three.”

Razgatlioglu will be back for more silverware in race two, and in 2019. His second podium was welcome but he is already sure what he needs to do to compete for the biggest prizes. Get more podiums like this.

“I am happy to be here and have helped Kawasaki win their Manufacturers’ Championship this year, but it is better to be in all tracks, in all races, at the front.”

Razgatlioglu’s third today bolsters his second placing from the Donington round in May – not bad for a rider with only 22 WorldSBK races completed to date.